Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to serving as a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation and continental integration, stressing that there is no alternative to African unity in addressing the continent’s challenges.
According to a statement issued by the Special Assistant on Communication and New Media to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Magnus Eze, the Minister speaking in Abuja during the commemoration of the 2026 Africa Day celebration, said the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, would continue to pursue policies aimed at strengthening sustainable development and enhancing regional cooperation across Africa.
The event, organised by the Forum of African Missions, marked the anniversary of the establishment of the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union, in 1963.
The 2026 Africa Day celebration was themed “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063″.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described Africa Day as more than a ceremonial observance, noting that it represents the enduring vision and courage of Africa’s founding fathers who established the OAU to promote solidarity, protect sovereignty, and advance the continent’s political and economic liberation.
“Africa Day is a powerful symbol of our shared history, collective struggles, and common aspirations as one people united by destiny,” she said.
The minister emphasised the importance of unity among African nations, stating that the continent’s progress depends on collective action and shared solutions to common problems.
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According to her, Africa’s cultural diversity should serve as a bridge for deeper understanding and stronger cooperation among nations, adding that preserving and promoting African culture remains vital for peace-building, regional integration, and sustainable development.
She stressed that unity remains Africa’s strongest tool in confronting insecurity, economic inequality, climate vulnerability, and global injustices.
“Our progress as a continent depends on our ability to act together, to speak with one voice, and to confront shared challenges with shared solutions,” she stated.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also called for increased investment in water infrastructure and sustainable water management across the continent, warning that millions of Africans still lack access to clean water and adequate sanitation.
She noted that water remains central to human survival, public health, food production, industrial growth, energy generation, and environmental sustainability.
“As Africa confronts the growing impacts of climate change, desertification, pollution, and rapid urbanisation, our commitment to sustainable water management must become more deliberate and coordinated,” she said.
The minister urged African countries to invest in resilient infrastructure, strengthen regional cooperation over shared water resources, embrace innovation and technology, and prioritise policies that guarantee equitable access to water and sanitation for all citizens.
She added that the theme of this year’s celebration aligns with the aspirations of Agenda 2063, the continent’s blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu called on Africans to renew their faith in the continent, strengthen bonds of unity, and recommit to building a prosperous Africa where citizens enjoy dignity, opportunity, and sustainable development.
